Eighteen years ago, Laura, a former neighbor of mine, was walking the neighborhood with her son Brian in the stroller. I can vividly remember her telling me that our boys were the Hen Hud Class of 2014.

I also recall being gobsmacked that she had even figured that out.

I was utterly overwhelmed with the baby stupids at the time and couldn't even fathom such a thing as Peter's high school graduation; I wanted the kid to hold his own bottle.

Well.

Here we are.

Graduation Day.

It happened THAT fast.

Peter has been socialized from a very early age as he was a well rounded day care baby. Some of his best friends remain kids from the Montrose Child Care Center.

He was precocious beyond his years as a little boy.

He is exactly just right as an 18 year old.

Peter has a dazzling smile, a super dimple, a firm handshake and the ability to speak confidently in public (thank you Barbara Pettersen and Robin Dolacky!).

He will get by on brains, looks, and charm for a lot of his life.

I love this kid.

He IS all that AND the bag of chips WITH dip.

His world is JUST beginning to open. It is big and beautiful and filled with opportunities galore.

College will mold him in ways living with his parents never can. The experiences will help him become an even more exceptional young man.

My statement to Peter (and his friends) as they leave the house every time they have gone out for years has been, "Don't do anything stupid with long term consequences."

I know doing stupid things is all part of growing up. So are mistakes. And accidents. And thinking you're invincible.

And so, my favorite son, on this HUGE day of your life, I wish you more than I can put into words.

Spread your wings but remember your roots.

Travel and explore.

Laugh. A lot.

Always take pride in your work even if you're doing it at the last minute.

Do your best.

Meet new people.

Broaden your horizon.

STUDY!

Have fun.

Be safe.

Be happy.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Your future is waiting. It's going to be awesome!

xoxoAll Love,Your Mommy

This is gonna be, this is gonna be, this is gonna beThe best day of my lifeEverything is looking up, everybody up nowThis is gonna be the best day of my li-ife